“We believe we have the robustness in our business model to make the decisions we need to make, either in extending contracts or bringing in new players to deliver the ambition we need to deliver.

“But I understand why we get the questions. This is a club that hasn’t won the Premier League for a long time and hasn’t won the Champions League. And I do know the only way we’re going to be able to answer the questions is by having the Premier League or Champions League trophy here.”

The first grass shoots are at least beginning to emerge following Emery’s whirlwind start to life at the Emirates.

“His energy is absolutely extraordinary,” said Venkatesham. “When you are on that long flight home from eastern Europe after a Europa League game and everyone is trying to get a little bit of sleep, he is watching the game, analysing it. All times, all hours. We had dinner with him on Wednesday and his energy and passion is infectious.”